Technology is a simple way even small businesses can take advantage of. It can help startups make better use of their somewhat limited capital in better and more efficient ways. It also allows business owners to utilize their own strengths, and in some situations, even provide a more efficient and more versatile way of using that strength. This makes it an interesting organic progression for any business process you already use.
However, like with many things, there is flexibility and open-mindedness required. After all, using technology in itself is a skill, and using technology to aid your business is another. Thankfully, it’s a skill that can be developed, and with how prevalent technology is in these modern times, it’s not as difficult as one would imagine. Plus, the potential benefits of utilizing tech far outweigh the difficulty of the learning process. Once your business has settled into its new routine, there is no other direction but up. Here are a few ways technology can aid your business.
Cloud Storage for Important Digital Files
Gone are the days where you need ten filing cabinets to store all the necessary paperwork and written information for your business. We now live in almost paperless times, with digital formats of traditionally paper-bound processes being more popular. And the data compiled within can now be stored on the Internet, allowing even better accessibility, provided you have the computer hardware to access it. We can now store information such as schedules, customer information, media such as videos and audio files on the Internet. This makes it very convenient for businesses to share data internally, as employees would always have access to important information. There is little worry for data loss since everything is stored in the cloud, keeping it safe from physical damage such as fire or hardware degradation. Some services offer data backups for companies and make sure that your digital files are safe and secure.
Communication Tools for Collaboration
In the old times, offices would have multiple internal telephones to facilitate communication at a company-wide level. There were lots of phones, ringing, and telephone-talking. Despite this, it’s still easy to miss vital information. We can only talk in real-time, and important announcements and developments would still be posted on a physical bulletin board.
Luckily, there are now online communication tools geared towards productivity and collaboration. These tools allow communication between employees, making information dissemination a lot easier. You can also share documents and files, removing the need for photocopiers and walking to different departments to hand over information. However, among the most useful features of modern communication tools is the ability to ‘pin’ important announcements, keeping everyone up to date with the latest developments in the company.
Social Media for DIY Marketing
Social media was initially created to keep in touch with your family and friends, facilitating communication via chat or video calls. But today, it has become an integral part of modern media consumption. Most people receive world news, economic updates and generally keep up with the world using social media.
Almost half the world uses social media as it is a great all-in-one tool to receive news and talk to friends. This makes it the best platform for businesses to advertise their services as it is where the people are. It is a great way to attract potential clients, connect with existing customers, and provide consistent updates about your company’s newest features. Considering the popularity and prevalence of social media, it is something that small businesses should utilize as the benefits outweighs the cost. It can be a direct marketing or customer correspondence method while being convenient enough to be done on a laptop or a smartphone.
Easier E-Commerce
When online banking was initially started, it was rife with doubts and skepticism regarding its safety and effectiveness. Thanks to developments in the financial technology industry, it has now become a staple of modern society. Many banking transactions that used to take days to accomplish can now be done in a matter of minutes. It has never been more convenient to do personal banking. Websites and smartphone apps allow you to interact with your bank account, make balance inquiries, debt monitoring, and payment more manageable.
Most importantly, this has given birth to e-commerce, a driving force in the world economy. From the looks of statistics over the years, e-commerce will become even more prominent, and small businesses drive this statistic forward with online shops. Considering that online commerce accounts for almost 15% of worldwide retail sales, establishing an online shop is something that small business owners should think about.
With this knowledge, employers can use trends and developments that can enhance business operations. Technology can pave a more manageable path for any venture.
